The healthy eating myth:
I think that the idea that healthy eating is expensive is a bit of a myth. I find that buying fresh produce, whole grains, pulses, nuts, seeds etc, works out cheaper than what somebody might spend on packaged and processed foods, cereals, biscuits etc. I found that when I moved to a plant-based diet, I was spending less as meat, cheese and other animal-based foods can be expensive and especially when you buy higher-quality products. I know my husband spends a lot on organic chicken breasts, but he feels it’s very much worth it.
Are you trying to eat more fresh, whole foods while keeping to budget?
These are my top tips:
1. I would encourage people to buy fresh fruit and veg from the discount supermarkets to avail of some really good offers, and buying dried beans, grains and pulses in bulk, for example, can form the base of inexpensive meals. There are often some great deals on organic produce too.
2. Cooking in bulk to last a couple or family for a few days of meals can work well when you’re trying to eat in a more healthy way, and I love making big batches of stews, curries and soups. They also freeze well.
3. Frozen fruit and veg can be good option, and frozen berries work out much cheaper than the fresh version. I keep a store of them in my freezer to use for quick, easy and nutritious smoothies.
4. Homemade hummus is another very simple option, rather than going for shop-bought versions. A can of chickpeas is cheap and they’re such a nutritious food, delicious on salads, in soups and stews.
5. The main aspect of eating well, apart from the motivation part, is being well prepared. So for me, that means having my fridge and cupboards stocked up with healthy snacks and components for easy meals. I usually keep a packet of raw nuts in my car or handbag, and loads of easy breakfast foods in my cupboard.
